PCR's guide to networking equipment

From super-fast WiFi routers to smart plugs and antennas, PCR rounds up the top networking devices on the market.

Asus Lyra AC2200 home Wi-Fi System

Distributor: Spire, VIP, TechData, Exertis

Lyra uses three interconnected Wi-Fi nodes to deliver a fast, reliable and secure signal. It gives users the freedom to roam anywhere around the house, automatically connecting to the best signal without interruptions.

The TP-Link SR20 is a central intelligence hub for smart or IoT home devices. Consumers can use their smartphone, tablet or the router’s touchscreen to monitor and customize interactions between their devices.

Deco is a home Wi-Fi solution that delivers fast, uninterrupted Wi-Fi for up to 4,500 sq ft of coverage. Deco also has built-in adaptive routing technology that automatically chooses the clearest path for all devices on the Deco unit.

The Intellinet 5-in-1 Cable Tester is a MIS tool that tests five common LAN and computer cables up to 600 ft. It checks for continuity, crossover and shorting. Testing is completed with the press of a button.

The new WL-AC-600M is the next generation of compact, nano-sized USB adapters for Windows, MacBook and Linux computers. Featuring dual-band, 2.4 and 5Ghz frequencies, it is ideal for congested wireless areas.

Netgear’s Orbi WiFi System covers up to 4,000 square feet. An industry first, the Orbi is the only system to utilise Tri-band Wi-Fi and has the capability of providing a wireless channel between router and each Orbi satellite.

The RE305 lets users keep more devices connected at the same time with its 2.4GHz 300Mbps and 5GHz 867Mbps dual bands. The 2.4GHz band is ideal for sending emails and browsing the web, and the 5GHz band for gaming.

Specs: Two external antennas, 2.4GHz and 5GHz, combined speed of up to 1.2Gbps, intelligent signal light

SRP: £44.99

D-Link EXO AC1900 router

Distributor: Ingram Micro, Exertis, Tech Data

The EXO AC1900 (Dir-879) router has antennas with signal amplifiers that will send multiple Wi-Fi streams for a reliable connection. Ideally suited to a smart home environment with a multitude of connected devices.

SRM’s Smart WAN capability on the RT2600ac supports 2Gbps Dual WAN combined bandwidth when multiple connections are established. If one connection goes offline, traffic can fall over to the other interface.

RT-AC88U uses the latest NitroQAM technology to boost the Wi-Fi speeds for everything connected to the network. It also comes with wide Wi-Fi coverage, lighting-fast USB and WAN/LAN speed plus AiProtection.